On 24 February 2026, Associate Professor Dr. Darunee Jothityangkoon, Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture at Khon Kaen University, along with the administrative team, lecturers, and staff, welcomed His Excellency Dr. Ernst Reichel, Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany to Thailand, and Ms. Sweta Madhuri Kannan, First Secretary for Cultural and Press Affairs. The visit was an opportunity to tour the prototype research and production facility for Black Soldier Flies (BSF) at the Industrial Insects Section.
Professor Dr. Yupa Hanboonsong presented the research progress of the project, “Development of a Precision Black Soldier Fly Farm Utilising AI to Enhance Biomolecule Production under Thai–German Cooperation.” The Thai side is led by Khon Kaen University, in collaboration with Suranaree University of Technology and Betagro Public Company Limited. The German partners include the August-Wilhelm Scheer Institute (specialising in AI) and the Öko-Institut (specialising in environmental research).
The delegation observed the AI-driven BSF production process. Dr. Chutinan Choosai, Head of the Industrial Insects Section; Assistant Professor Dr. Witee Methwan, Head of the Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology; Dr. Papitchaya Teawsakul; and Mr. Panya Maghawan, a senior researcher from Betagro’s Research and Development Centre, provided comprehensive information on enhancing the efficiency of the integrated production cycle.
Associate Professor Dr. Darunee Jothityangkoon, Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture, stated that the BSF model production facility is part of the University’s research into future agriculture and food. The project aims to develop a sustainable, environmentally friendly, and commercially viable alternative protein source. BSF larvae can decompose organic waste, reduce refuse, and add value to resources. They are high in protein, making them a suitable raw material for animal feed, and they contain antimicrobial compounds. Furthermore, the larval residue can be developed into medical products and organic fertiliser.
This visit highlights the strong academic collaboration between Thailand and Germany and underscores the Faculty of Agriculture’s capacity to drive agricultural innovation towards international sustainability.
